Here, Jordan Cronin predicts the starting XI Howe will name against Dean Smith’s Norwich:
Goalkeeper: Martin Dubravka
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Made his first appearance of the campaign against Arsenal - and looked like he had never been away. Swiftly proved why he is Newcastle’s number one.
Right-back: Emil Krafth
Handed a surprise start the Emirates. Will he retain his place, or could Javier Manquillo be recalled?
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Centre-back: Fabian Schar
Newcastle’s best defender on the ball. Looked better at Arsenal after a rusty outing against Brentford, seven days prior.
Centre-back: Ciaran Clark
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Best of a bad bunch defensively? It’s hard to tell when a lot of the worst defending comes from that left-hand side. Never has a team needed a Paul Dummett so badly.
Left-back: Jamal Lewis
Newcastle United left-back Jamal Lewis. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
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Central midfield: Jonjo Shelvey
Eddie Howe has talked Shelvey up - and he will find out himself whether he can get a tune out of a player who blows hot and mostly cold at United.
Central midfield: Joe Willock
We saw flashes of the Willock of old with his breaks forward last weekend. Hasn’t been the same player since coming back, but signs of the link up with ASM were there again against the Bees.
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Right-wing: Ryan Fraser
Recalled to the starting XI against Arsenal and didn’t impress too much. However, Howe knows his qualites and trusts the Scotland international.
Left-wing: Allan Saint-Maximin
One of United’s real stars in the Brentford draw before being less influential against Arsenal. United need the French to shine once more at St James’ Park.
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Second striker: Joelinton
Was outstanding in his last St James’ Park appearance and there are signs that the Brazilian is definitely improving.
Striker: Callum Wilson
The club’s best out-and-out forward. A class act, with goals in his boots. Eyeing his first goal since the 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace in October.